70 | Engaging with local community Sustainability and community engagement have been key focuses for Mike Downs Contracting over the years. T T from page 68 Mike Downs Contracting CONTRACTING Mike says a key factor in the company’s success has been its strong relationships with clients, consultants and subcontractors. Key clients over the past 25 years include Redspur Limited, Danne Mora Residential and Christchurch City Council and their consultants including Davie Lovell-Smith and Fox & Associates to name a few. Subcontractors include Isaac Construction, Kreisel Contracting, Ode’s Contracting, Leka Landworks, Spray Marks, Qualis, Kerbco, Cattermole Contracting, Greenscapes, Morgan & Pollard Landscapes, Radar Geophysical, Pipe Guys, H3 Builders, Road Tech Lab, Scarlett Contracting and Allott Reeves & Co. “Our team of subcontractors are an important part of our team and allow us to provide specialised technical experience to increase our resources when required,” says Mike. “We couldn’t do what we do without them and they are an important part of our extended team.” Sustainability and community support Sustainability and community engagement have been key focuses for Mike Downs Contracting over the years. Company owner Mike Downs says it has made significant strides in integrating environmentally friendly practices and community support into its core business model. “The whole world is moving towards more sustainable practices and we do look at areas we can improve on. For example, re-using excavated material so we do quite a bit of cut to fill in land development,” he says. The company’s environmental policy reflects this commitment, with a focus on protecting the environment and preventing pollution. “We’re committed to securing a sustainable future for present and future generations,” Mike explains. “This commitment extends to using resources sustainably, minimising waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring that work practices and equipment do not have lasting negative impacts on the environment.” The company’s approach to sustainability is holistic, encompassing not just environmental concerns but also social and economic aspects. It prioritises hiring local people, investing in training and personal development, and paying at least the living wage for all experienced workers. This approach not only supports the local economy but also helps create a skilled workforce for the future, says Mike. The company’s commitment extends to its equipment as well. It maintains a well-serviced fleet of plant and machinery and prioritises sustainability when purchasing new or replacement equipment. This approach not only reduces its environmental impact but also improves efficiency and reduces costs in the long run, says Mike. Mike Downs Contracting’s commitment to community support is an intrinsic part of its business: “For example, we were doing a road reconstruction in Banks Street for Christchurch City Council. Templeton School, Kidsfirst Kindergarten and Paparua Templeton RSA are on that street. So we worked in with them to do charity projects for them at the same time, like asphalting at the school, building a path for the RSA for the ANZAC Day ceremonies and a footpath in the car park. We like to do our bit helping out in the community.” The company also recognises the impact its work can have on local businesses. Mike explains the approach during the New Brighton Marine Parade upgrade project: “It can be hard for businesses when work is getting done in the street. So we gave $50 per week to all our staff that had to be spent in local businesses. It’s good to build rapport with businesses in the areas you are working.” Mike says that Mike Downs Contracting will continue to set and review environmental objectives annually, striving for continual improvement of its environmental management systems. This also extends to monitoring and evaluating the environmental performance of subcontractors and suppliers, implementing effective communication on environmental issues throughout its supply chain. “Our team of subcontractors are an important part of our team and allow us to provide specialised technical experience to increase our resources when required.” 308 Trents Rd. Prebbleton Christchurch +64 3 349 8228 hello@morgan-pollard.co.nz www.morgan-pollard.co.nz Proud to provide landscape solutions for Mike Downs Contracting Mobile. 027 414 2000 | Email. adam@kreisel.co.nz 03 389 9435 027 440 4308 19 Tanner Street, Woolston pete@radar.kiwi The Dedicated Specialist for Underground Utility Locating
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